Royal Enfield Electra EFI (2008-current)

Royal Enfield have tried hard to meet new Euro 3 emission laws without ruining the feel of their classic 500cc single, and it's worked. The all-new unit-construction lump is fuel-injected yet still feels like an Enfield, mostly because it still has the 84mm bore, 90mm stroke and heavy crank of the old Electra. It may be made in India but it's a traditional British push-rod single. Rubber strips between fins are there to reduce engine noise, but sat on top of you're still treated to a nice classic sound that should endear the bike to old-fashioned purists. It's still a lazy little engine, but it accelerates slightly quicker than the old model and has a touch more top end too.

The brakes aren't up to much, with a single disc on the front and a drum brake (how quaint) on the back, so it's a good thing the engine's only packing 27.5bhp. It's relatively comfy, until you get up to speed and the vibes start to kick in. It's definitely not a bike for long journeys or sustained top speed. Compared to the competition, like the Kawasaki W650 or the Triumph Bonneville, handling and suspension lack quality.

One look at the pictures should tell you that there's no on-board computer or digital tyre-pressure sensors here! The Enfiled aims to recreate biking from a simpler time. 2 wheels and an engine are about all you get for your money, but if you're here reading this and considering one of these bikes, that probably forms a big part of the appeal.